When tragedy strikes, we often feel a driving need to explain it away. And the simpler the explanation, the more comforted we often are inclined to feel.
This appeared to be the case this past week, when online bullying made regional and national headlines after several high profile suicides, including the death of a Rutgers student whose sexual encounter was broadcast online without his knowledge.
The recent focus on cyberbullying – cruel, aggressive behavior that takes place through social media, texting and other electronic communications tools – has both advantages and disadvantages, as this Houston Chronicle article does a good job of explaining.
On one hand, it is, indeed, true that cyberbullying is a serious problem. Kids, particularly those in middle school and junior high who are struggling to maneuver a complex social landscape, have long been known for their cruelty.
And increasingly, social networking, texting and other tools, which allow bullying to occur without being face-to-face, seem to be fueling increasingly aggressive, cruel behavior.
At the same time, we also know that suicide is by no means a new problem. About 85 Americans take their lives each day. Their reasons are generally complex, often tied to a deadly mix of ills, including loneliness and isolation, family problems, strife in peer relationships and, most prevalent, mental health issues including depression.
When we hyper-focus on one potential cause of suicide, we run the risk of ignoring the bigger picture. And when we do that, some young people who are crying out for help might not see their needs addressed.
As advocates of educational and social justice, we certainly need to be aware of the latest statistical trends and current events. But we also need to remember that most social woes are systemic and cannot usually be attributed to one simple cause.
By keeping the bigger picture in mind, we are more likely to meet real needs – both now and in the future.
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